Spirit of unity guides APEC leaders on trade, growth

From the moment that Asia-Pacific leaders arrived in Bangkok for the first in-person APEC Economic Leaders' Week in four years, the focus has been on how members in the grouping can facilitate free and open trade and investment, reconnect the region, and promote sustainable economic growth.

These priorities featured prominently in the discussions when the leaders came together on Friday for the opening of the 29th APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in the Thai capital.

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, the 2022 chair of the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, spoke of the need for the 21-member group to draw on strength through unity in order to address common challenges.